Top Family Vacation Destinations in the US

Selecting a destination that could create lasting memories is a must when you’re finally ready to take time off your busy schedule to vacation with your family.

Fortunately, the US has an abundance of fun and enjoyable attractions for every age—whether you’re looking to immerse in nature, get adventurous with a few outdoor activities, explore culture and history, or just let loose in a theme park with your kids.

In this article, we discuss our favorite places for family vacations and some essential tips to create a memorable experience for everyone.

Top US Destinations for a Family Vacation

From historic monuments and charming architecture to breathtaking scenery and unforgettable attractions, the destinations we’ve listed below have much to offer travelers, regardless of age or interests.

San Francisco, CA

This densely populated city in California has a unique appeal that makes it a must-visit travel spot for your family. The top five places in San Francisco we recommend you include in your itinerary are:

• Golden Gate Bridge
• Presidio
• Fisherman’s Wharf
• Alcatraz
• The Mission

The city is also known for its cable cars, night markets, music festivals, eclectic cuisine, shopping districts, and much more.

Orlando, FL

If you have young kids, Orlando should definitely be on your bucket list. A fun-filled destination with beautiful weather, the city is designed to attract travelers throughout the year. So you’ll find plenty of attractions to keep your family occupied. Five places you must visit include:

• Universal Orlando
• ICON Park
• Kennedy Space Center
• SeaWorld
• T-Rex Café

Whether it’s visiting Universal Orlando or exploring the Kennedy Space Center, there’s no shortage of fun-filled activities to enjoy. Consider renting a sprinter van Orlando to easily navigate between these exciting destinations, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable vacation experience for your family.

Washington, DC

You don’t need to look far to find a family-friendly tourist attraction in Washington, DC. And it’s not all about fun and entertainment, either. The city has lots your kids could learn from. Our favorite places in this metropolis are:

• White House
• Washington Monument
• Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
• United States Botanic Garden
• Jefferson Memorial

Anaheim, CA

Located in the Greater Los Angeles area, Anaheim’s economy relies on tourists to a large extent. The city has made sure that you and your family have enough things to enjoy when you get there. Some of the attractions you can’t miss include:

• Disneyland Park
• Yorba Regional Park
• Discovery Science Center
• Aquarium of the Pacific
• Angel Stadium

Outer Banks, NC

Every year, over 5 million travelers visit this popular destination in the state of North Carolina. 

In the beautiful islands of the Outer Banks, there is something for everyone. Apart from enjoying the beaches and watersports, there are lots of family-friendly activities you can plan for. Here are five attractions for travelers:

• North Carolina Aquarium
• Wright Brothers National Memorial
• Corolla Adventure Park
• Jockey’s Ridge State Park
• Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

Tips to Make the Best of Your Next Family Vacation

Making your family getaway a memorable one will be easier with the following tips.

Decide Your Budget

Understandably, a lot depends on the budget when it comes to planning for a family vacation.

Some destinations are best suited for luxury getaways. But there are enough places to explore with a limited budget, too. So determine what type of vacation you prefer and how much you want to spend on it.

Do Your Homework

Once you select a city to visit, spend sufficient time to learn more about it. This will help you plan and prepare ahead to minimize unpleasant surprises and ensure a smoother vacation for you and your family.

For example,

• Find out what the weather is like during the time you intend to travel.
• If you’re planning a road trip, determine the safest and fastest route and where essential services, such as gas stations, are located.
• Consider the best options for getting around, whether walking, cycling, using public transportation, taking a taxi, or renting a car.
• Visit official websites set up by cities or attractions for tourists to learn about the best places to visit and things to do. Don’t forget to read traveler reviews, which will give you first-hand insights into vacation experiences.

In addition, make a note of emergency numbers for the local area.

Set Up an Itinerary

Keeping your schedule open so you can make spur-of-the-moment decisions can be lots of fun. But when you have an itinerary, you can make the best of your vacation and make your budget go a longer way.

Identify which sights, tours, and activities you want to cover at the destination you have selected. Consider the needs of every family member. However, remember not to cram too many things into the itinerary and leave aside enough time for rest and relaxation.

Plan What to Pack

With last-minute packing, you’re more likely to leave behind essentials such as phones and chargers. Creating a checklist is a good starting point to avoid this.

• Identify specific items, including medicine, your family may need.
• Pack weather-appropriate clothes.
• Include a few entertainment options for the kids, from board games to music.
• Pack equipment required for activities you have planned.

Keep Safety in Mind

Many tourist hotspots are hotbeds for scams. So, taking measures to prevent and mitigate threats is essential for protecting your family from scammers.

For instance,

• Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
• Leave your valuables at home to minimize the risk of theft and loss.
• If you intend to rent any equipment or vehicles, check whether they’re in good condition before renting.
• Never share personal or identifiable information with strangers. Learn more about them on Nuwber before getting too friendly.
• Rely on travel desks and official travel hotlines to seek information.
• Use a ride-hailing app when you need a taxi.
• Avoid secluded places after dark.
• Never share your travel plans and itineraries online. Waiting until you return home to share photos and details about your vacation on social media is also prudent.

To Conclude

The United States has some excellent destinations for family vacations. We recommend San Francisco, CA, Orlando, FL, Washington, DC, Anaheim, CA, and Outer Banks, NC, for your next getaway. These cities provide plenty of attractions and activities for travelers of all ages, allowing you to create a memorable experience that your family will cherish.